Visa in Latvia
17 Institutions·100+ ProgramsKey Takeaways
- Proof of funds required: €500 per month (€6,000 per year)
- Health insurance minimum coverage: €42,600 (premium typically €200–€300 per year)
- Visa application fee: €60
- Work hours allowed on student visa: 20 hours/week during term; 40 hours/week during holidays
- Residence permit processing options and fees: Up to 30 days €70 (master's/doctoral exempt); 10 working days €200; 5 working days €400
Application Overview
Apply in person at a Latvian embassy or consulate. Submit your full application at least 3 months before travel. You must include a Letter of Acceptance from a recognized Latvian university.
Key points:
- Apply in person at an embassy or consulate.
- Submit at least 3 months before travel.
- Documents must be in Latvian with notarized translation.
- Letter of Acceptance from a recognized Latvian university is required.
Who Can Apply
You can apply if you hold an offer to study at a recognized Latvian university. This includes degree and doctoral study programs.
Notes:
- Latvia is in the Schengen Area; UK citizens are third-country nationals for visa purposes.
- Major universities named in source material include the University of Latvia and Riga Technical University.
Required Documents
Prepare these mandatory items in Latvian with notarized translation.
- Letter of Acceptance from a recognized Latvian university.
- Proof of funds showing €500 per month (€6,000 per year).
- Health insurance certificate evidencing minimum coverage of €42,600.
- Any other documents requested by the embassy or consulate; translations must be notarized.
Administrative note:
- Submit all documents in Latvian. Translations must be notarized before submission.
Financial Requirements
You must show minimum funds and suitable insurance.
- Proof of funds: €500 per month, equal to €6,000 per year.
- Health insurance: minimum coverage €42,600.
- Health insurance premium: plan costs typically €200 to €300 per year.
- Visa fee: €60 payable when submitting the application.
- Residence permit fee: see processing times and fees section for options and exemptions.
Application Steps
Follow these steps in order.
- Secure a Letter of Acceptance from a recognized Latvian university.
- Buy health insurance that provides minimum coverage of €42,600 and obtain the certificate.
- Arrange proof of funds showing €500 per month in your account.
- Translate required documents into Latvian and have translations notarized.
- Book an in-person appointment at the nearest Latvian embassy or consulate.
- Submit the application at least 3 months before your planned travel date and pay the €60 visa fee.
- If you receive a visa, register your residence permit at OCMA within 30 days of arrival.
Processing Times and Fees
Plan for standard and expedited processing options.
- Submit the application at least 3 months before travel to allow standard processing time.
- Visa fee: €60 due at application.
- Residence permit processing and fees:
- Up to 30 days: €70 (fee exempt for master’s and doctoral students).
- Up to 10 working days: €200.
- Up to 5 working days: €400.
- Residence permits are granted for the duration of your studies and include an additional four months beyond the study period.
Work While Studying
A student visa permits part-time work under set limits.
- During term time: you may work 20 hours per week.
- During holidays: you may work 40 hours per week.
- Students can work part-time in various sectors while respecting these limits.
Residence Permit and Registration
Handle your permit and registration promptly after arrival.
- The student visa is valid for the duration of studies.
- Residence permits are granted with four extra months beyond your study end date.
- You must register your residence permit at OCMA within 30 days of arrival.
Living Costs and Scholarships
Budget for monthly expenses and check scholarship options.
- Estimated living costs: €300 to €500 per month.
- Proof of funds requirement is separate and set at €500 per month (€6,000 per year).
- Scholarships are available, including Latvian Government Scholarships.
- The academic year runs from September to June.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to apply for a student visa for Latvia?
The visa application fee is €60. Residence permit processing fees vary: €70 for up to 30 days (master's and doctoral students may be exempt), €200 for 10 working days, and €400 for 5 working days. Health insurance premiums typically run €200 to €300 per year.
How long before travel should I apply for a Latvia student visa?
You must submit your application at least 3 months before travel. This timing allows for standard processing and any required document translation and notarization.
How much money do I need to show for a Latvia student visa?
You must show proof of funds of €500 per month, equal to €6,000 per year. This is the minimum maintenance requirement set by immigration authorities.
Can I work while studying in Latvia?
Yes. You may work up to 20 hours per week during term time and up to 40 hours per week during holidays. Work must comply with national employment rules and your visa conditions.
How long is a student residence permit valid in Latvia?
A student visa is valid for the duration of your studies. Residence permits are granted with an additional four months beyond the end of your study program, and you must register the permit at OCMA within 30 days of arrival.
